Pedestrian countdown signals can help reduce pedestrian crossings near the end of the pedestrian phase. Photo taken in New York City.
Source: Flickr - Eric Fischer (2011)

Traffic Signal Enhancements

Countdown signals may be designed to begin counting down at the beginning of the walk phase or at the beginning of the clearance (flashing DON’T WALK) interval. Countdown signals have been demonstrated to reduce pedestrian crossings when only a few seconds remain.8

Since pedestrian pushbutton devices are not activated by about one-half of pedestrians (even fewer activate them where there are sufficient motor vehicle gaps), new "intelligent" microwave or infrared pedestrian detectors are now being installed and tested in some U.S. cities. These automatically activate the red traffic and WALK signals when pedestrians are detected. Detectors can also be used to extend the crossing time for slower moving pedestrians in the crosswalk (often called a PUFFIN crossing). Automatic pedestrian detectors have been found to improve pedestrian signal compliance and also reduce pedestrian conflicts with motor vehicles. However, they are still considered experimental and their reliability may vary under different environmental conditions.9

Purpose

A variety of traffic signal enhancements that can benefit pedestrians and bicyclists are available. These include automatic pedestrian detectors, larger traffic signals to improve visibility, signal placement designed to deter motorists from observing cross street signals, and countdown signals provide pedestrians with information about the amount of time remaining in a crossing interval. The Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) Alternative Treatments for At-Grade Pedestrians Crossings report describes numerous traffic signal enhancement measures in detail.7

Considerations

• Pedestrian signals need to indicate the crossing interval by visual, audible, and/or tactile means if pedestrians with restricted vision are to take advantage of them.
• Pedestrian countdown signals can help reduce pedestrian crossings near the end of the pedestrian phase.